NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Culture & Tourism

Sanwo-Olu inaugurates J Randle Yoruba culture centre after facelift

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By Taiye Olayemi

 

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Monday inaugurated the remodelled J Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History.

The centre is currently playing host to the maiden edition of Afropolis Lagos Festival, an international festival of arts, creativity and innovation, which kicked off on Oct. 26 and expected to end on Nov. 3.

Sanwo-Olu also announced the appointment of Nigerian multimodal international artiste, Qudus Onikeku, as the Centre Director for the J Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History.

The governor said the centre, meant to project the history and culture of the Yoruba race from the beginning through to the present and the future, would also serve as a suitable research centre.

Sanwo-Olu said: “Qudus Onikeku will now be the Centre Director for the J Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History. Taking this decision took us almost a year to conclude.

“Qudus is fit to manage this place. We are going to be relying on your expertise and skill for the proper management of this centre.

“He (Qudus) brought the idea of this Afropolis festival, for players in the creative sector to express themselves because we are aware that Lagos is home to lots of creative minds.

 

“This is a destination for the entire creative sector and people of innovation. It is appropriate for research, meetings, relaxation and more.”

He said that the centre was a place to envision ideas.

According to him, it is a centre for the younger creatives to develop their talents.

“This is not a localised space, what we have here are things that bring the entire south west states together; you will see Obatala, Oranmiyan and other dieties in the Yoruba kingdom.

“I am using this opportunity to say that we are deliberate in christianing this place, it is open for the entire Yoruba race, everyone who wants to showcase anything creativity,” he added.

Sanwo-Olu added that the installation of equipment was ongoing at the centre.

The governor assured the creatives of accessibility to funds when they are able to birth new and innovative ideas as many have benefited.

He noted that as part of plans to develop Lagos as the hub for entertainment and tourism, the state had invested in training creatives cutting across various fields.

He said professional institutes like Ebonylife Academy, Ogidi Studio and Delyork Academy were some of the institutes that were engaged in the capacity development programmes.

 

“Our objective will never be to stiffen innovation but to create enriching environment for creativity to thrive.

 

“So, I call on the Ministry of Tourism to develop a proper calendarisation of tourism, culture and entertainment activities so that we can have specific month or months to host such activities.

“This is to enable tourists plan their activities to visit Lagos,” Sanwo-Olu said.

Also, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, the state Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, described the centre as a living tribute to the richness of Yoruba culture and an invitation for all to partake in its beauty.

Benson-Awoyinka said the centre embodied a collective dream, a dream of unity, understanding, and appreciation for the nation’s shared cultural identity.

She appreciated everyone, who contributed to the establishment of the centre, dedicated artisans, historians, educators, and community leaders.

“The John Randle Centre will serve as a beacon of knowledge, highlighting the profound contributions of our ancestors and the enduring spirit of our culture.

“It envisions a space where the stories of our forebears come alive, a place resonating with traditional music, showcasing intricate artistry, and sharing the vibrant narratives of our history.

“This centre is designed to foster a deep sense of connection and pride among all who visit.

“Importantly, this initiative is not only about preservation, it is about innovation.

“We invite our youth to engage with and reinterpret our heritage in contemporary ways, bridging the gap between generations and ensuring our culture remains dynamic and relevant,” she said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Sanwo-Olu and other government officials were taken on tour of the centre after the inauguration.

The centre accommodates a museum, children corner, storytelling arena, exhibition space, a library, multipurpose rooms, a theatre, a seminar room and more. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa/Folasade Adeniran

Culture & Tourism

CBAAC celebrates FESTAC ’77 legacy at Goge Africa Festival

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By Taiye Olayemi

 

The Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC) on Sunday mesmerised the audience at the Goge Africa Festival with an exhibition, showcasing relics from the Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC 77).

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the festival is the celebration and commemoration of the 25th anniversary of Goge Africa, which has its theme as “Symphony of Culture”.

 

The exhibition by CBAAC was part of activities for the Goge Africa Festival at the Onikan Stadium, Lagos.

 

The exhibition took the people down memory lane on the enduring legacy of FESTAC ’77, revitalising the spirit of Africa’s most iconic cultural extravaganza.

 

The CBAAC exhibition tagged “Our Shared Heritage” featured vintage recordings of legendary performances, rare photographs and documents, intricately crafted artefacts, historical recordings and footages.

 

This captivated young festival-goers, many of whom were discovering FESTAC ’77’s significance for the first time.

 

Also, the exhibition left indelible mark on the revellers, reminding them of Africa’s rich cultural diversity; the power of cultural exchange and the importance of preserving heritages.

 

Speaking with NAN, Aisha Adamu-Augie, Director-General of CBAAC, said the centre had come to display its over 126 publications.

 

“We are here to celebrate with Goge Africa and support them to continue to project the beauty of Africa, we all know how beautiful Africa is.

 

“Yes, we have our shared heritage exhibition here, we have over 126 publications showcased here, that people can buy and learn about African art, civilisation and heritages,” she said.

 

Adamu-Augie commended Goge Africa, saying it had the last 25 years remained steadfast.

 

”It is not easy to run a business in Nigeria, and to have been able to run for 25 years, it is exceptional and we are here to celebrate with them.”

 

She advised younger Nigerians to explore the nation’s culture, to generate employment and wealth.

 

According to her, culture can also be explored to effect peace and unity. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Culture & Tourism

AIFF: Stakeholders want FG ‘s support for Nigeria’s foremost film festival

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By Joshua Olomu

Stakeholders in the Nigerian film industry have called on  the Federal Government and the FCT administration to support the Abuja International Film Festival (AIIF) after 21-years of running as a foremost film fiesta in Nigeria.

They made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the red carpet of the opening  ceremony of the  21st edition of  AIFF holding at the Silverbird Galleria in Abuja.

This year’s AIFF is with the theme “Beyond Borders: Bridging Cultures Through Cinemas”.

It iis holding from Oct. 28 to Nov.1, bringing together actors, filmmakers, regulators and other cinematic stakeholders from around the world.

According to the stakeholders, film festivals play pivotal role in the growth of any culture and creative industries as they serve as platforms to showcase opportunities and attract investors.

They said the AIFF, a private initiative, has successfully made the FCT a tourism attraction, bringing together filmmakers, actors and investors from across the world in the past two decades.

They said the federal government and the FCT leadership should identify with the AIFF in order to make tourism, culture and creative sectors major drivers of the economy,

Emmanuel Eyaba, filmmaker and former Chairman of the FCT chapter of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), said the AIFF has made Abuja a filmmaking hub and therefore should be supported.

“As a matter of fact, Abuja is the next hub for filmmaking and if we must take it to another level government need to pay more attention to this film festival.

“AIFF is one of the most significant film festivals in Africa, and I mean the festival that has been able to sustain itself for 21 years.

“I think it is very important that we should sustain a festival like this to grow our film industry,” he said.

Also, legendary actor Zack Orji, said the AIFF had evolved to become a connecting point between Nollywood and other  industries across the globe and therefore  should be treated  as a national asset.

“This festival is where Nigerian filmmakers connect with filmmakers from other  parts of the world for  international film production and other things they want to achieve in the industry internationally.

“Filmmakers from all these different countries are coming to Nigeria to show their works, to get the opportunity to meet their colleagues, get different film production arrangements and sell their works.

“I must commend the founder Mr Fidelis Duker  for sustaining it  for 21 years, when  you do not  get grants and funding,” he said.

The Festival Director, Temitope Duker, said the annual film fiesta had become a choice tourist destination for Nigeria, especially the FCT, adding that funding was however a major challenge.

“Government need to understand the fthey have to be fully involved   in this film festival  to reap its benefits for the country.

“Look at the ripple effects when foreigners come here; for instance, if you do that, we are sure that as of today, all the taxi drivers will be in business.

“The food vendors in Abuja will be in business and even the hotels will be fully booked.

“So, if government taps into this just a little bit, and makes it a very conducive environment for people to come, you can just imagine what Abuja will make within the next four days.

“It is, therefore, important for government to understand that this festival does not belong to individuals, it belongs  to the industry, it belongs to the city of Abuja,” she said.

Duker said  a total of 1,254 film submissions were received from 67 countries across the globe, and 82 of the total film submission got selected, while 53 of them were nominated for awards.

According to her, the festival will feature screenings, workshop campus, panel discussion, exclusive producers’ master class, exhibition fashion show and party award, among other highlights.

Dr Shaibu Husseini, Executive Director/CEO, National Film and Video Census Board (NFVBC), lauded the founder of the AIFF for staying steadfast to its vision in the past 21 years.

Husseini, who earlier gave a keynote address at the opening event, said NFVCB was committed to supporting initiatives that contribute to the growth of the nation’s film industry.

“I normally would describe it as one of the longest-running independently organised film festivals in West Africa, and I dare say even in Africa.

“I want to commend them for consistency because some people would have said, oh, this is not bringing money to our table and will leave it.

“I look forward to actually having this festival being adopted even by the city of Abuja, by the government, adopted as a festival because beyond showing films, it is  a tourism event.

“You can imagine people travelling from different areas to come to the festival, to come and see films, to come and connect, to come and exhibit their ware,” he said.

The NFVCB helmsman said that the board was working closely with key stakeholders in driving innovative reforms for the nation’s film industry in line with President Tinubu’s  poise to repositioning the culture and creative sectors. (NAN) (nannews,ng)

 

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

Culture & Tourism , Foreign

Africa China News, NAN forge partnership to foster cultural exchange

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

Zheng Xiaopeng, CEO and Publisher of Africa China News (ACN), has expressed interest in collaborating with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) to promote cultural exchange between Nigeria and China.

Xiaopeng said this when he paid a courtesy visit to NAN’s Managing Director, Malam Ali Muhammad Ali, in Abuja.

He highlighted ACN’s mission to provide accurate news, insightful analysis, and cultural exchange programmes fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between the two nations.

“Our mission at ACN is to provide accurate and timely news, insightful analysis, and cultural exchange programmes that foster mutual understanding and cooperation between Nigeria and China.

“We seek NAN’s partnership as a respected media leader in Nigeria; your guidance and expertise will be invaluable in helping us achieve our goals,” Xiaopeng said.

Xiaopeng, who has been in Nigeria for over 10 years and has visited about 20 states, aimed to promote cultural exchange and bilateral relations.

“China is my first home, and Nigeria is my second home. I enjoy Nigerian culture and am a chief from Yoruba and Igbo land,” he added.

In response, Ali expressed NAN’s willingness to partner with ACN, citing the agency’s commitment to fostering bilateral relations with strategic countries like China.

Ali, who was represented by Mr Ephraims Sheyin, Editor-in-Chief of NAN, said that the management of NAN was anxious to support initiatives that promoted Nigeria’s cultural heritage and togetherness.

“NAN is Africa’s largest news content provider with over 3,000 clients.

“NAN provides various services, including general news, SMS news, economic news, sports news, foreign news, and press wire services.

“We have offices in all 36 states in Nigeria, with district offices and correspondents,” he said.

Ali promised that NAN’s marketing department would work closely with ACN to subscribe to its services and enrich their content.

“Once you get our services and bulletins, they will sincerely enrich everything you want to publicise,” he said.

NAN reports that ACN’s core mandate includes promoting cultural engagement, cultural arts, cultural exchange programmes, and heritage preservation between China and African countries.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Culture & Tourism

Censors Board wants accurate film production data to attract investors

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By Joshua Olomu

Dr Shaibu Husseini, Executive Director/CEO of National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), has solicited the cooperation of Nigerian filmmakers toward providing accurate output data to attract investors for the growth of the industry.

He made the call in his opening address at a capacity building conference organised by the board for ‘Kannywood’ filmmakers on Wednesday in Kano.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event tagged “Next Generation Evolve Conference: Embracing the Power Within”, is holding from Oct. 23 to Oct.24 at the Kannywood TV Hall.

Filmmakers, actors, investors and other stakeholders drawn from the region were part of participants for the two- day event, with seasoned industry practitioners as resource persons.

According to Husseini, although the Nigerian film industry is thriving, there is need to have accurate and adequate data that truly reflect its true capacity and the investment opportunities it offers.

The NFVCB boss said accurate data was needed for effective planning and development of the industry, and was also a major catalyst that could endear prospective investors.

He noted that although NFVCB serves as the authentic repository of Nigeria’s film production, unwillingness of many filmmakers to present their films for classification was affecting the true picture of output.

“One of the problems we have in our industry is that we do not have data, as the ones we have do not reflect the true picture of what comes from the industry, because of this lack of data, investors are not interested in our industry and when we tell them that we can produce a thousand plus films in a year, they will wonder.

“A lot of filmmakers bypass the census board, as they no longer bring their films for classification, which is even illegal.

“Those of you who are filmmakers who are bypassing the board are just not helping the industry to grow, because we need to attract investors by what we can offer.

“I am interested in data, not the amount of money you pay, it is about getting accurate data on our movie productions.

“We need numbers because we need to report every time what the industry is doing so that investors will know that our industry is very productive,” he said.

Husseini said the training was part of NFVCB’s commitment toward ensuring that stakeholders from the region were empowered with the relevant know-how and trends in filmmaking in the digital age.

He, however, lauded the contribution of Kannywood to the nation’s film industry, in terms of output, job creation and contribution to GDP.

According to him, NFVCB as a national regulatory body of the motion picture industry is working towards ensuring that filmmakers in the region can access technical and financial support.

He said the conference was to offer training in critical areas of filmmaking, including cinematography, directing and production.

“The National Film and Video Censors Board is committed to supporting Kannywood’s growth and development and that is why are we doing this programme.

“Kannywood unique cultural identity and creative expression have contributed significantly to Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and as regulators, we recognise the importance of balancing creative freedom with social responsibility.

“The Act that established the board gives us the power to classify films and videos, to register outlets, and to safeguard intellectual property.

“So, our goal is to protect the industry, to promote Nigerian content, and to safeguard public interest,” he said.

In their goodwill messages, industry players, heads of guilds and government functionaries of the state government commended the censors board for organising the programme.

Mr Abdulkareem Mohammed, Managing Director/CEO, Moving Image Ltd., said the training was an indication that NFVCB under its current leadership wants a Nigerian film industry that was evenly developed.

Mohammed, who is also the founder of Kano Indigenous Languages of Africa Film Market and Festival, said Kannywood was a major industry that was promoting Nigeria’s values and should be well supported.

Guilds with participants at the training include the Actors Guild Nigeria (AGN), Arewa Filmmakers Association, Professional Film Directors Association of Nigeria, Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MOPPAN) and Kannywood Women Association, among others. (NAN)

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

Culture & Tourism

FG to launch ‘DuduPlugs’ for Nigeria’s culture

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By Joshua Olomu

The Federal Government is set to launch a digital repository of Nigeria’s cultural practices and traditions known as “DuduPlugs”.

“DuduPlugs is a cutting edge global digital platform developed by ACITeksystem, a Nigerian-American company, in collaboration with the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO).

Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, Executive Secretary/CEO of NICO, at the pre-launch on Tuesday in Abuja said DuduPlugs allow users to explore, share, and celebrate nine distinct cultural categories.

They include Music, fashion, Art, Film, food, dance, Green/Artistic building, technology, language and literature using technology as an enabler.

Ajiboye said the platform would serve as a repository and connecting platform for  Nigeria’s culture and creativity, as well as increase international exposure of Nigeria’s cultural assets and ingenuity.

“This seamless combination of social connectivity aims to promote and preserve Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage with the view to pass it down to younger generations.

“It will attract global acceptance and accessibility; attract foreign exchange earnings as well as evoke appreciation of the Nigerian culture, thereby strengthening its economy and international image.

“You will agree with me that today, our nation bleeds for lack of inflow of foreign exchange and even internal production is stifling.

“This is why we have decided to think out of the box to use culture, a hitherto forgotten sector to rescue this impending catastrophe, within our own space and ability.

“DuduPlugs also seeks to position Nigeria as a prime cultural destination, promoting tourism and global appreciation of the country’s heritage.

“It will serve as an accessible educational resource and foster collaborations between cultural organisations, government agencies, and individuals to create a sustainable platform for cultural preservation and knowledge-sharing,” he said.

Foluke Michael, the Project Management Executive, said the project was over 80 per cent completed, and when launched would serve as tool for cultural diplomacy for Nigeria and create jobs for its teeming youths.

“Dudu Plugs is coming at this time to reintroduce Nigeria in positive light with 9 Plugs, including culture, art, creativity and bringing them together is possible in Nigeria.

“I also want the world to know that we are not just cut out for what they read in the news and there is something positive about our nation.

“This project is actually domiciled in America and that is why we keep saying Nigerian- America organisation as we are a group of passionate Nigerians telling Nigeria’s story,” she said.

In her address, Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, lauded NICO for championing the initiative, adding that the platform would endear Nigeria’s rich cultural and creative sectors to the world.

Musawa, who was represented by Ibiene Roberts, Permanent Secretary in the ministry, said the platform would serve as a veritable tool for national unity.

“As we unveil DuduPlugs today, may it serve as a symbol of unity and pride in our cultural heritage because it reflects the colours, stories and experiences that define who we are as a people.

“I, therefore, encourage each of you to embrace this initiative to engage what the platform provides and to collaborate in celebrating our unique narratives.

“Our celebration of life through our numerous festivals will also be projected to an audience in the Diaspora, which encompasses Brazil, Cuba, Trinidad, and Tobago, Jamaica and the large African-American population.

“They are not only thirsty for a substantial taste of our vibrant Nigerian cultures but are also yearning for a return to their roots,” she said.

In his goodwill message, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, commended the Ajiboye-led management of NICO for  the initiative.

He said that the President Bola Tinubu administration was committed to ensuring that the culture and creative sectors become robust sources of national income and job creation.

NAN reports that top government functionaries, including heads of agencies under the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy were present at the pre-launch event.(NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

Culture & Tourism

Tourism remains powerful catalyst for peace, unity—Commissioner

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By Taiye Olayemi and Aderonke Ojediran

The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, on Friday said tourism serves as a powerful catalyst for fostering peace and unity in the society.

Benson-Awoyinka made this remark during the commemoration of the 2024 World Tourism Day, with the theme: “Tourism and Peace”, in Lagos.

“This year’s theme is timely and significant, as it invites us to reflect on how tourism, beyond being a tool for economic development, serves as a bridge for peace, understanding, and unity among people and nations.

“Lagos, as a dynamic hub of culture and commerce, understands the power of tourism in building not only an inclusive society but a peaceful one.

“Through tourism, we are able to connect with the world, break down cultural barriers, and offer a platform where differences are not just acknowledged but celebrated.

“The tourism sector serves as a powerful catalyst for fostering peace,” Benson-Awoyinka said.

According to her, as visitors from around the world explore different lands, meet new people, and experience diverse cultures, they engage in an exchange that promotes mutual respect, tolerance, and friendship.

She added: “It is this spirit of shared humanity that can turn tourism into an engine for peace and reconciliation, as it opens hearts and minds to new ways of thinking, living, and coexisting.

“In Lagos, we are not only committed to promoting tourism as an economic driver but also as a tool for fostering peace.

“Our initiatives continue to elevate Lagos as a global tourism destination, where cultural diversity is showcased, and our rich heritage is shared with the world.

“Today, as we gather here at Muri Okunola Park, I am proud to say that Lagos remains a beacon of cultural and tourism excellence.”

 

The commissioner said that the state government’s collaboration with Sterling Bank to commemorate the Day remained a testament to the power of partnerships in driving the growth of this vital sector.

“Through this joint effort, we hope to strengthen the narrative of tourism as a path to peace and reconciliation, demonstrating how tourism can create opportunities for sustainable development while bringing people closer together.

“Let me take this opportunity to commend all tourism stakeholders, our partners, and the local communities who continue to contribute to the growth of tourism in Lagos.

“You are the backbone of this industry, and your dedication helps us maintain our position as a leading tourism destination in Africa.

“Today, as we mark this global event, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that tourism remains a force for good in our society,” he said.

Looking ahead, the commissioner said that the state government was excited about the future of tourism in Lagos.

She said that the government was constantly exploring innovative ways to make tourism more inclusive, sustainable, and peaceful.

“Through our continued efforts, Lagos will not only remain a key player in the global tourism landscape but will also stand as a city that exemplifies how tourism can promote peace,” she said.

Also speaking, the Executive Director of Sterling Bank, Mr Tunde Adeola, said that the event was to showcase the heart and soul of the country.

Adeola said it was also to promote Nigeria’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and the warmth of its people.

“Through this campaign, we invite the world to experience Nigeria, while also encouraging Nigerians to discover the beauty of their own homeland.

“We believe that this journey of discovery brings us closer together and deepens our appreciation of one another.

“As we reflect on the theme of today’s celebration, let us remember that tourism is more than a industry.

“It is a means to creating a world where we see each other not as strangers but as family.

“Every journey can be a step towards greater understanding, unity, and peace,” he said.

Adeola said that the bank was looking forward to continuing its role in promoting new opportunities for tourism and building connections.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that highlights of the events includes exhibitions and cultural displays. (NAN)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Culture & Tourism

How to reposition Nigeria’s tourism industry – Experts

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By Taiye Olayemi

 

Some tourism and hospitality experts on Friday revealed diverse ways to upscale Nigeria’s tourism industry, as the world celebrated the 2024 World Tourism Day (WTD).

 

They spoke during the commemoration of WTD, organised by Sterling Bank and the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, in Lagos.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that since 1980, the United Nations World Tourism Organisation has been celebrating the World Tourism Day as international observances on Sept. 27.

 

The theme for the 2024 World Tourism Day is “Tourism and Peace”.

 

Mr Ikechi Uko, Convener of AKWAABA African Travel and Tourism Market, said Lagos state needed to create interesting narratives around its beautiful coastline which seem unique from all others across the globe.

 

Uko said the colour in Lagos water was different from the usual green or blue, adding that stories around the colour should be created to further market the state.

 

He noted that nightlife was another aspect of tourism the state had not explored well enough.

 

“Tourism is the only industry not producing millionaires in Nigeria yet, this is to tell us that there is a lot to be done.

 

“Nightlife is what Lagos should be known for, more investment in that area is needed.

 

“The state government has done very well with the blue rail, the tourists that came for the recently concluded AKWAABA African Travel and Tourism Market were excited exploring it. Lagos also has five beautiful bridges.

 

“I will like to mention that to market Lagos well enough, the travel professionals and tour operators should be consulted, they are the ones to create beautiful narratives that would woo more tourists,” he said.

 

Also, Mr Chike Ogeah, Managing Director, Lagos Marriot Hotel, said that to reposition tourism in Lagos and Nigeria, infrastructure development should be upscaled, as well as security.

 

A Nigeria-born, London-raised textile designer, Banke Kuku said the Nigerian fashion industry could play a huge role in boosting tourism through storytelling.

 

Kuku said fashion opens up dialogue which could be seen as pathway for peace and development.

 

She advised Nigerians to indulge in telling Nigerian story through fashion to upscale the tourism industry.

 

Abiola Adelana, Head, Tourism and Creative Arts Business, Sterling Bank, reiterated the bank’s willingness and readiness to upscale tbe industry through a loan facility which was tagged travelling loan.

 

Adelana said as part of plans by the bank to enhance domestic tourism, ‘Discover Naija’ project would be launched soon.

 

“We are visionary and actively involved in promoting the Nigerian tourism agenda. Projecting community based tourism is a priority for us.

 

“When we came on board, we tried to understand the industry, identify problems and proffer solutions, so we devised practicable products to empower people.

 

“We cannot separate peace and empowerment, we are conscious of the fact that when empowerment is in place, peace is inevitable,” she said.

 

Speaking on what Nollywood practitioners can do to improve tourism in Nigeria, Biola Sokenu, Group Executive Director, Nile Media Entertainment, said actors should be conscious of the content they project in films that represent Nigeria.

 

She said in showcasing Nigerian culture and festivals in films, those aspects of Nigerian content should not be projected as fetish.

 

“Nollywood has evolved, the picture quality and even content have all improved, we should be conscious of the image we project about Nigeria,” she said.

 

Ms Damilola Ayinde-Marshal, Senior Special Assistant to Gov. of Lagos State on Tourism, noted that the Lagos State Government was looking out for vulnerable areas across the state in order to create fun around such areas.

 

Ayinde-Marshal noted that this was one of the plans of the state to further project Lagos as a choice destination for tourism.

 

Mrs Nike Okundaye, Founder of Nike Art Gallery, spoke on the importance of showcasing Nigerian fabrics.

 

She commended Sterling Bank for supporting the sector in the last few years. (NAN)

Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

Foreign , Culture & Tourism

China, Nigeria to foster peace through cultural entertainment

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By Sarafina Christopher

China and Nigeria have stressed the need to foster peace through cultural and entertainment initiatives.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the two countries made the call in Abuja at the 5th National Entertainment and Peace Summit, with the theme, “Cultivating A Culture of Peace”.

Speaking at the gathering, Mr Yang Jianxing, the cultural counselor of the Chinese Embassy, highlighted the relationship between entertainment and peace.

The relationship, he said, helps to alleviate negative emotions and provides relaxation, and promotes a sense of unity among different people in spite of their diverse backgrounds.

He observed that in spite of being from different countries, people are fundamentally the same and share common human emotions and experiences which can either create conflict or foster peace.

“We believe that entertainment can help alleviate negative emotions by providing relaxation and a means to forget temporary sadness.

“Therefore China places great importance in people to people communication and friendship through cultural exchange for global peace.

Yang also spoke of the significance of the entertainment industry in fostering mutual communication and understanding between Nigeria and China.

He said that cultural exchange through entertainment can be a powerful tool for future collaborations.

“The collaboration between China and Nigeria aims to cultivate a culture of peace and promote cultural diplomacy, further contributing to global efforts for a more peaceful world,” he said.

Amb. Nsikan Paul, the Executive Director, Drum Majors for Peace reiterated his commitment to promoting peace, inclusivity, and social cohesion through entertainment, dialogue, youth development, and the creative industry.

He also noted that peace is more than just the absence of conflict;It is a condition of harmony that must be cultivated by intentional acts and efforts.

“Today, as we come together under the banner of peace, we are reminded of the immense power of creativity in shaping a better world.

“Through positive entertainment and meaningful dialogue, we aim to build sustainable cities and communities that are inclusive, fair, and resilient; aligning our efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 1, 2, 11, 16 and Goal 17.

“We are dedicated to providing young people with platforms to discover, develop, and maximize their potential, empowering them to become responsible and patriotic citizens.

“We are especially proud of our joint effort to promote peace via the arts, as evidenced by our win as the Grand Prize winners of the Energy China Dance Competition, sponsored by the Chinese Cultural Center and Energy China Nigeria,” he said.

The summit was organised by the Drum Majors for Peace in partnership with the China Cultural Center in Nigeria to commemorate World Peace Day, 2024. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

Culture & Tourism

Olojo Festival: Ooni flags off event, reveals ancestral significance

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By Taiye Olayemi

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, on Thursday flagged off the commencement of the 2024 Olojo Festival, revealing the event’s ancestral and spiritual significance.

 

Ogunwusi spoke at his palace at a news conference on the 2024 Olojo Festival with the theme: “Evolving Transformational Domestic Tourism With Community Festivals”.

 

According to him, the festival is significant because of the spiritual exercises that characterise it and the testimonies it attracts.

 

He said the celebration of the revered cultural event was held annually in the ancient city to celebrate the day of the first dawn.

The Ooni said the festival was in remembrance of “Ogun”, god of iron, who is believed to be the first son of Oduduwa, progenitor of the Yoruba people.

 

He added that the festival marked the birth of the “Aare Crown”.

 

Ooni said that several prayers rendered to Olodumare through the iconic “Aare crown” during the Olojo festival had been answered with so much testimonies.

 

“Olojo is the festival of dawn and the birth of the crown, “Ade Aare”, the crown of all crowns. The crown that gave birth to all crowns all over the world with all the colours of the rainbow. It is called the spectrum of rainbow crown.

 

“The crown does everything humans does, it is a very spiritual crown, very sacred. I am a living example and witness. I have actually charged the crown, I have prayed with it, that I want this done, this particular time.

 

“This is my ninth year on the throne, going to my tenth year by the grace of God, I have seen a lot of testimonies.

 

“I will pray with the crown worn on my head, I pray to the almighty God, Olodumare through the crown. I have never seen any failure in it. It is our strong heritage, our strong culture and tradition and we will continue to uphold it forever.

 

“We are not idol worshipers, these are things our ancestors left for us that are working and it will continue to work.

 

“These are things we should not joke about, It is our heritage, we should not compromise it with anything. It is created by nature, by God Almighty who is the supreme being,” he said.

 

Explaining the nature of the “Ade Aare“, Ooni described the crown as a sacred, mysterious being which bears the nature of humans.

 

According to him, the crown functions like humans.
“Olojo is the time when the crown comes out for blessings. This is a crown that has life in it till date, right from time immemorial.

 

“The crown changes the weather, it does not see the atmosphere except once in a year, during Olojo festival.

 

“In the crown, we see everything complete, we see the day, night, four corners of the world, the northern, southern, eastern and western poles.

 

“The birth of the crown is actually the first dawn pathfinded by Ogun, which is linked to our celebration.

 

“Olojo is the main new year celebration and this dovetails to everybody’s new yam festival all over because what is used to bring out yams are cutlasses and hoes made with iron.

 

“This is the time we get beautiful harvests, the time we get wallnuts, bitter kola. For us in Ile-Ife, we still uphold our heritage and that is why we celebrate the first dawn,” he said.

 

Ogunwusi appreciated the sponsors for the festival.

“I want to appreciate you all, our sponsors, for everything you have been doing. For always responding to my calls. May God bless you and may our ancestors guide you all. I appreciate the state government as well,” he said.

Earlier, Mr Abiodun Bankole-Ojo, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Osun, appealed to sponsors of the Olojo festival to look into the possibility of developing some tourism sites within the state, like the Oranmiyan Groove.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Grand Finale for the 2024 edition of the annual Olojo Festival in Ile-Ife, will hold between Sept.

26 and Sept.30.

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

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